Bush Officials Refused Award to J.K. Rowling Because of "Witchcraft" Writing, Book Claims

Matt Latimer, a former speechwriter for Bush, writes in his book, "Speechless: Tales of a White House Survivor," that administration officials politicized the award and decided not to give it to the Harry Potter author because of her repeated references to witchcraft -- despite the Bushes' vocal praise for her books.

The Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation's highest civil award, is awarded to individuals who have made an outstanding contribution to the security or national interests of the United States, world peace, or culture.